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Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo

Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo: One-Pan Wonder for Busy Nights

Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo is a quick, nourishing one-pan dinner that's ready in 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts Feel free to use thighs for more flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Perfect for sautéing.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium Red Onion Adds natural sweetness.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced works best.
  • 1 medium Bell Pepper Any variety will do.
  • 1 medium Zucchini Adds moisture.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Fold in at the end for freshness.
For the Pasta & Flavoring
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Can swap with gluten-free pasta.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth for vegetarian option.
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar Adds tangy glaze.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Perfect seasoning.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil For garnish.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the oregano. Heat olive oil in skillet, add chicken, cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to plate, cover with foil to keep warm.
  2. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and diced red onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic, cook for another 30 seconds.
  3. Stir in diced bell pepper and zucchini, cook for another 2-3 minutes until vibrant. Add orzo pasta, stir to coat with oil and vegetable mixture.
  4. Pour in chicken broth, bring to boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender and absorbs broth.
  5. Slice cooked chicken, fold back into skillet. Add halved cherry tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and remaining oregano. Heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
  6. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 45mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Adjust cooking time for vegetables based on your texture preference. For creaminess, add heavy cream or Parmesan before serving. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

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